Affordable

Effective

Performing Arts Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Performing Arts instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by Zach

"I've been working with David as a coach on both auditions and jobs for years. He has a great understanding, not only of the craft, but also how to work wi

th actors of any level. Whether you're brand new or have been doing it for years, David is a fantastic resource when it comes to analyzing the script, finding the most honest choices, and arcing scenes. No tricks or gimmicks here. If you're looking for someone to help you be the real deal, look no further."

...

Los Angeles, CA teacher:
David T.

Review by Brennan

"For any and all acting coachings, Aaron is simply the best. I have worked with Aaron in both private monologue coachings and in group improv acting classe

s, and he has treated every class with enthusiasm, joy, and exceptional intelligence. As a teacher, Aaron is extremely knowledgable and well-trained when it comes to acting technique, but most importantly, he encourages exploration of a piece, and will be with you every step of the way as things get tough. Aaron is quick to pinpoint trouble spots, but will present you with viable solutions on how to fix them. He is encouraging and inspiring, the kind of teacher who makes you feel special and excited to succeed. And personally, Aaron is a fun, funny, goofy, and charming guy who you will love spending time with. I couldn't recommend him highly enough!"

...

New York, NY teacher:
Aaron B.

Review by Kenny

"My lesson went really well, I was a bit nervous at first but Emily did a great job of making me feel comfortable and really helped me out a lot!"

Minneapolis, MN teacher:
Emily B.

Review by Raj

"I am a complete newbie in dancing and Andrew was great in helping me really enjoy dancing. I highly recommend Andrew!"

San Jose, CA teacher:
Andrew H.

Review by Stacie

"I am very please with the results. As I read and we spoke Randy detected habits ormispronunciations in my speech. Just having him draw my attention to t

hem I began hearing them in everyday conversation. He is an excellent and fun coach and I highly recommend him for anyone wanting to improve and polish their speaking whether business or giving presentations. I plan to use him for some on camera and public speaking pointers. Thanks Randy!"

...

Detroit, MI teacher:
Randy L.

Review by Bill

"Dan is a great teacher. He is patient and explains things clearly. He also encourages you to find your own style of performing. His helpful critique makes

you a better performer."

...

San Francisco, CA teacher:
Daniel C.

Review by Scott

"Arlys has given me valuable insights into developing my speaking voice and helping me to find a comfortable pitch and rate. After only 3 lessons I have im

proved dramatically. I recommend her highly. Very sincere and professional."

...

Minneapolis, MN teacher:
Arlys A.

Review by Adam

"I was not in town but according to my son she was great."

New York, NY teacher:
Vianca P.

Review by Daniele

"Wesley is just wonderful. I felt comfortable with him as soon as we met and I learned so much in just the first 30 minutes. And I already feel so much mor

e confident that my speaking engagement will rock now that I have Wesley as my coach!"

Emily F.

About Emily

Hello all! I am Emily F., a graduate of Grove City College with a degree in Music Education. While in school I majored in Percussion and Voice and spent the majority of my time performing and gaining experience. I am currently an elementary music teacher with Prince George's County Schools, where I have just begun my 5th year of teaching. I have had years of lessons myself and have taught many students as well. As a vocalist, I can teach you how to sing anything from Top 40 hits to Broadway numbers to Operatic Arias. I will help you gain confidence as a performer and vocal strength. I am also

prepared to teach beginning piano lessons to help you learn to accompany yourself and others. For percussion lessons, I have years of experience as a principal percussionist in my College's band and orchestra and would love to help you learn how to be a classically trained percussionist, not a drummer. Overall, I offer experience, knowledge, and a chance to get out of your shell and onto a stage.

*** Lesson Details ***As a teacher, I strive to create an environment that is student centered. I want you to feel as comfortable as possible when we begin a lesson so that you can do your best. Lessons with me will be fairly laid back, but only if I see you giving 100%. My goal is to create self-motivated learners at any age. As far as curriculum goes, I will work off of what you want to learn and what books you may already have. I can suggest books for almost any genre of voice, basic piano books, and I know the best beginning percussion books out there. Regardless of genre or instrument, after a few months with me you will be a confident performer. I want all of my students to not only be trained on their instrument, but on showing their talent to the world.

*** Travel Equipment ***I will bring any materials necessary for the first lesson and then suggest materials that the student should use. I have a ukelele and a pitch pipe that can be used for vocal lessons if a keyboard is unavailable.

*** Specialties ***I have a great deal of experience auditioning for plays and musicals and got many parts in high school in college. I have had years of experience performing in both vocal and instrumental groups. Vocally, I am comfortable teaching Broadway, pop, or classical vocal styles. In the percussion field, I specialize in mallet instruments, but I am comfortable teaching auxiliary and snare as well.

...

Reviews

Kathy J. March 12, 2015
Piano ·
In home Verified Student

This teacher is not dependable. She did not show for several appointments. She is delayed in responding to emails to schedule new appointments.

Madeline T. November 21, 2014
Percussion ·
In home Verified Student

I started taking marimba lessons from Emily several months, but due to various work related and health issues, I've had to frequently change my schedule with her. I have appreciated her flexibility in working with me and has always responded in a timely manner. She has shown great patience and is a good teacher. She loves what she's doing and that is a great asset in teaching. Most of all, she is a very nice person.

mona C. November 11, 2014
Piano ·
In studio Verified Student

I have been taking piano lessons with Emily for almost a year, and have had a very good experience. Her teaching style is "laid back" and patient, but she does emphasize accuracy in technique. (This was a factor I was looking for in a piano teacher.) I took lessons as a child, but had not touched the piano since then. In the past year, I feel I have made significant progress.

Personally, Emily seems to be a dedicated profession (she is also a nice person to work with.) She has consistently responded to e-mails, texts, etc. in a timely manner.

View More

Emily F.

View Profile

Emily F.

Laurel, MD 20707

(5)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

Belinda L.

About Belinda

*** Lesson Details ***NOTE: I prefer to teach students ages 11 & up. I will accommodate younger students, but as vocal development is a direct reflection of physical development (the instrument is the body), we will be unable to delve deeply into technique. Instead, the curriculum for younger students will include musicianship and piano skills; they will be more of music lessons that incorporate singing rather than "vocal" lessons. My current studio consists of all sorts of singers including classical, musical theater, R&B, and pop. In classical voice lessons, we will be learning songs n

ot only in English, but also Italian, German, and French. Classical voice lessons may not be for everyone, however, and we will learn repertoire that suits the interests of each student.

I emphasize a basic knowledge of music theory, because it's important for a singer to not only know how to sing, but to also understand the music he or she is singing. I will incorporate music theory into the lessons, starting with basics such as learning how to read notes.

I believe in making sure the singer is comfortable and confident. The environment you will be learning in is open and non-threatening because a singer needs a place to explore his or her voice. I encourage my students to make mistakes and to keep the lines of communication as open as possible. Singers are perfectionists, and we're constantly telling ourselves what we do wrong- we don't need someone else enforcing that negativity.

I concentrate on a classical vocal technique, with proper posture, efficient breathing, lack of facial and body tension, and healthy vocal production. I believe that it is important to have a strong foundation of healthy technique no matter what style of singing. My teaching style and lesson focus will be different for each individual person, and I'm very flexible in adapting to each singer's needs and personality.

I am a very understanding teacher, and very patient, but I will push you to work to your potential! What you put into these lessons and your practicing is what you will get out of it. I am not strict, but I do expect dedication, passion, and respect. I am a very enthusiastic and energetic teacher, and lessons with me will be fun, productive, and encouraging.

If I sound like the right teacher for you, please arrange a trial lesson to see how well we work together!

*** Specialties ****Teachers classified as a Student Favorite have taught a minimum of 25 lessons and have received the highest feedback rating from students. I specialize in classical singing- applicable to any style of singing!

...

Reviews

Margaret W. June 23, 2016
Singing ·
In studio Verified Student

Belinda is a wonderful teacher. She has been very patient with me and taught the lesson in a step by step way, helping & directing me to know what I should be looking for. I enjoyed very much to have her as my instructor.

Mercedes M. March 15, 2015
Singing ·
In home Verified Student

Belinda is an amazing teacher I have been doing lessons with her since January,and she is amazing fun,she will help you with anything your having a problem with, and I so Recommend her :)

Kerry H. February 12, 2015
Singing ·
In studio Verified Student

I have been working with Belinda for a little over 2 years. Every lesson, she challenges me to be better than before. What I love most about her style, is she customizes her style of teaching for the student. I am a very imagery oriented person, and she always helps me to visualize things in ways that makes sense to me. My singing has dramatically improved during my time with Belinda, and I would recommend her to anyone in a heart beat. Every lesson is different, every lesson is challenging in a new way, and every time I walk away feeling like that was the best lesson I've ever had. Thank you Belinda!!

View More

Belinda L.

View Profile

Belinda L.

Baltimore, MD 21202

(11)

starting at

$57
/ 30-min

Jackson C.

About Jackson

Jackson Coaching StudioWelcome to the Jackson Coaching Studio! It pleases me to welcome you as a valued student. My job as your instructor/coach is to ensure that my students get the best knowledge and skills. I teach the following lessons:* Voice lessons * English * Spanish * Public Speaking * Piano for beginners and revisiting...

I advocate a dynamic variety of approaches to your learning styles and trends. My interest is in the study of voice production; functionality, style/approach, health, and stage presence and as a result, my students are empowered with useful to

ols to reach their goals, confront and overcome common oppositions.

I am a PROCESS teacher. Everything in life is a process. Therefore, as a PROCESS teacher, I believe in beginning every first lesson with all of the information (I plan to teach) as a preview. Immediately (upon the next lesson) followed by my teaching methods:

My teaching methods fall into these four categories: (D.A.D.E.)• Discovery- Gathering relevant and resourceful information of voice functionality.• Application- Putting technical skills to use and knowledge of when to use them.• Development- Process learning- Changes cause/effects and as a result, progress, production, and promise. “Trust the process.”• Execute- To bring forth, carry out, and perform!

Process teaching and learning is a specific teaching style that not only empowers the students to feel confident about their craft, it also gives the students useful skills that can be applied to REAL "time-life" scenarios. This reinforcement confirms that the students have indeed learned what they've hired me for and more.

By signing up for voice lessons with Jackson, you will become a V.I.P. member. What is a VIP member? V.I.P. members have the inside opportunities to learn “singer secrets!” (Vowels, Interpretations and Pept-talk).• Vowels- Two different approaches: Spoken and Sung• Interpretation- A stylistic approach that best explains or makes sense of. Your explanation for your creativeness. • P.E.P.T.-Talk (Details in your lesson)

Note:1. The most important thing for singers/musicians/language students is that they train their ears. Why? Because 90% of what you'll learn is by what you recall from hearing/listening. 2. ENVIRONMENT- is key to your learning. It's important for you to surround yourself around the very things that you're learning.

Once you sign up, you’ll receive a questionnaire. The information you provide is vital because it shapes and designs your learning curriculum.

Bio: From Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Born October 15th, 1974) is an American singer, songwriter, arranger, and producer. Notable instruments are the piano and percussion. Jackson is one of Washington, DC’s prominent male vocalists. His voice is recognized as; beautiful light lyrical-pure tone, fine diction, long phrasing and an extended high range. He is also known for his work within the concert/recital repertoires around the Washington, DC Metropolitan areas and performances with the Symphonic Orchestra of Northern Virginia, Jeff Dokken, conductor.

Jackson credits himself as a Pop Inspirational singer. “Music to touch, move, and inspire.”- Jackson C.Jackson has experience working with youth and adults in churches, and privately. He has taught music and accompanied the production "KIDS" at the Kelsie Collie Children's Musical Experience. His music education studies hail from; University of the District of Columbia,- Washington, DC, Oberlin Conservatory under Richard Miller,- Oberlin, OH, and Shenandoah University Conservatory under Dr. Kathryn Green,- Winchester, VA with an emphasis in Voice Pedagogy (CCM) Contemporary Commercial Music. His professional music career began (Spring 2009) in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area. Jackson is fortunate to have had a career built on “word of mouth” via his fans and supporters. Often, he is called upon to sing for; weddings, funerals, private parties, churches, recitals etc. Words and phrases that best describe Jackson's vocal performances are: (G.R.I.P.) Graceful, Refreshing, Inspiring, and Powerful.

"Trust the process! Everything in life began and ends with a process."- B. Jackson Caesar

Languages: (English & Spanish)My interest in the Hispanic language, its apparatus, style/approach, and culture as it pertains to the ever growing population and bilingualism around the Americas. My desire is to engage the students in the discovery and appreciation of the lingual- romantic tongues.

Spanish:Countries visited; Mexico and Peru.I can guarantee that within a few months you'll feel confident and sure that you're conversation- ready to Speak Spanish. Therefore, if you're preparing a trip to a Spanish speaking country, you’ll find Peruvian Castellano pronunciation straightforward and as good as any other, with few of the dropped letters or peculiarities found in some other countries.

English (As a second language)I enjoy helping other’s learn the complexities of the English language. English is indeed a hard tongue to grasp however; it’s not difficult once you understand its secrets. (Phonetic learning)

Acting Coach: I advocate a dynamic variety of approaches to your learning styles and trends. My interest is in the study of voice production; functionality, style/approach, health, and stage presence and as a result, my students are empowered with useful tools to reach their goals, confront and overcome common oppositions.

...

Reviews

Chris September 28, 2016
Piano ·
In home Verified Student

First lesson was great and intense. Just what I wanted from my instructor. Great learning for adults.

Hiroto A. September 28, 2016
Singing ·
In studio Verified Student

His lesson was great!
My son didn't want to sing in front of someone before, but he enjoyed a lesson and he said he loves to sing a song now!

Lissette September 7, 2016
Singing ·
In studio Verified Student

Was very mind blown of what I learned! Amazing teacher!!
Can't wait to learn more!!!

View More

Jackson C.

View Profile

Jackson C.

Takoma Park, MD 20912

(23)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

Briana S.

About Briana

Briana has enjoyed teaching since she was a teaching assistant at Detroit Windsor Dance Academy, her high school dance studio. Since then she has taught students within Washington DC Public Schools, the University of Michigan Recreation Center, the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop, Morton Street Dance Center, District Dance Arts, as well as many other studios and non-profit organizations. Teaching allows her to express herself, pass on her knowledge and experiences and inspire students to develop their technique, creativity, individuality and showmanship.

There is never a dull moment in Briana’

s classes! Her specific classes and lesson plans are catered to specific age groups from Pre-K to adults. They consist of engaging movement activities, warm-up, and complex movement combinations. She is an energetic and patient teacher who seriously takes into account the needs and skill level of the student in preparing her lesson plans and material.

Briana’s use of dance vocabulary and physical demonstrations allow her to teach the material accurately and effectively. Her positive attitude and constant words of encouragement keep students motivated and engaged in the lesson. Students will increase their knowledge and physical vocabulary of the movement style and leave each lesson a better dancer, performer and person.

She received her Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Dance and Bachelors of Arts in Sociology from the University of Michigan in May of 2013 and has had a wide range of professional experience. She has worked with and performed works by modern dance choreographers such as Lindsey Merchant, Melissa Beck, Germaul Barnes, Jessica Fogel, Christopher Huggins, Shen Wei and Dianne McIntyre. She was artistic director of a chapter of the international hip-hop dance company Dance2XS International.

Briana was a full-time company member with StepAfrika!, a professional stepping company in Washington, DC from 2013-2015 and currently, she is working with CityDance resident artist S.J. Ewing & Dancers. Briana has had the privilege of performing at DC's City Rhythms Festival, Catholic Universities Hartke Theater, the Hill Center, the VelocityDC Festival, the Guantanomo Bay Naval Base as well as others. Recently she was invited to perform a modern dance solo in Dance Place’s 2014 New Releases Choreographers Showcase and Joy of Motions 2014 Dance Project Concert. Most recently, she served as the assistant choreographer on the American Theater’s Company’s production of The Project(s) in Chicago, IL, rated 4 stars by the Chicago Tribune. Most recently, she collaborated with Hard Soles Dance Company on a new piece titled “Re:set”, combining contemporary dance and body percussion, for the 2016 March on Washington Film Festival in honor of the 70th anniversary of the integration of the NFL and was chosen as Dance Place's 2016 New Releases Commission Recipient in support her new work to be premiered the summer of 2017.

Briana encourages students to bring writing materials to each lesson to take notes for any learned vocabulary and each lesson will follow with a recorded video of the movement for the students to refer to until the next lesson.

...

Reviews

Ebonee November 25, 2016
Ballet ·
In studio Verified Student

I started taking private lessons after a long hiatus from ballet. Briana is an excellent teacher, patient, and knowledgeable. I've progressed faster than I would have if I had only taken group classes. Briana's teaching style is fun and inspiring. She takes the time to discover where you are in your dance training and tailors the lessons to your goals while maintaining authority as a professional. I recommend Briana for any adult dancers who want to improve their technique and want focused, individual training.

Matt September 6, 2016
Modern Dance ·
In studio Verified Student

Briana was a very enthusiastic teacher and had very interesting lesson plans. She strives for student improvement and always keeps class fun. I would definitely recommend her as a dance instructor!

Olivia W. August 26, 2016
Jazz Dancing ·
In studio Verified Student

Great first class! High energy, friendly instructor with attention to detail. I fully expect to see lots of growth in my daughter's dancing with Brianna's instruction!

View More

Briana S.

View Profile

Briana S.

Washington, DC 20010

(14)

starting at

$85
/ 60-min

Tokia C.

About Tokia

With over a decade of snatching microphones and captivating audiences, Tokia's (2Deep’s) resume reads like Who’s Who travel guide. From Cornell University to Ottawa University, American University to Penn State, United States to Australia, this German born-Alabama raised entertainer has spoken to crowds all over the globe. She’s opened for the late Gil Scott-Heron and performed for President Barack Obama’s first inaugural celebrations at the Washington National Cathedral. She welcomes a freshman class to American University annually and has spoken out against domestic violence on legislative f

loors in Maryland. She keeps busy hosting two monthly, sold out shows (ten years). Armed with a BFA & MFA she's more than equipped to speak her mind before a crowd & teach how you can do it too!

...

Reviews

Alan December 8, 2016
Stage Performance ·
In home

My experiences with Tokia are as a performer and generative for The Tarot Reading. We worked together in rehearsal, where she acted, performed poetry, and created vignettes. What strikes me most about her is how easy she is to work with. She lights up a room with her personality and makes everyone feel at ease. She expresses herself with remarkable clarity. She won't get you bogged down in technical terminology; she'll give you solid, practical work. If you are looking for a teacher who can boost your confidence while improving your skill, Tokia is the one for you!

Quill December 3, 2016
Stage Performance ·
In home

I hired Tokia to do three small devised piece that had some fairly complicated constraints. She used them to her advantage each time, and produced work that was entertaining and engaging for my audience. She's intelligent, adaptable and creative. I haven't experienced it myself, but I believe with no reservation that she would be an excellent teacher.

Emma-Claire December 2, 2016
Spoken Word ·
Online

Advice from TwoDeep has been invaluable. In the time she's been coaching me, I've developed my performance and writing skills as a spoken word poet at a much faster rate than if I'd been working on my own. Her confidence and preparedness is easily evident every time I work with her. I feel extremely blessed to know she is part of my journey in creating a career in poetry, and I highly recommend her services to anyone with a passion for writing and/or performance.

Recent Performing Arts Articles from the Blog

Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro,
check out the Performing Arts articles on our blog.

Curious about choreography? Get started with these simple methods and tips from New York City actor, dancer, and teaching artist Jasmine B...
&nbsp;
Choreographing is an elusive art; sometimes we master it in moments, other times we can only sit in an empty studio with a pad of paper and our bodies in limbo. After learning how to choreograph a dance for myself, from some of the most innovative artists in the country, and witnessing some pretty phenomenal new pieces, I've noticed and st …
Read More

Choreographing Creatively | How to Choreograph a Dance

Curious about choreography? Get started with these simple methods and tips from New York City actor, dancer, and teaching artist Jasmine B...
&nbsp;
Choreographing is an elusive art; sometimes we master it in moments, other times we can only sit in an empty studio with a pad of paper and our bodies in limbo. After learning how to choreograph a dance for myself, from some of the most innovative artists in the country, and witnessing some pretty phenomenal new pieces, I've noticed and st

7 Qualities to Look for in the Perfect Ballroom Dance Partner

Whether you're a veteran dancer or you're just beginning to learn ballroom dancing, every dancer needs a partner. If you haven't already found your perfect partner, keep your eyes peeled for these seven winning characteristics.
1. They've Got Smooth Moves
Your perfect partner doesn't have be Fred Astaire or Ginger Rogers, but they should know how to ballroom dance well. Ideally, you and your partner should be dancing at about the same skill level. The best dancers tend to be the most s

8 Movies Every Actor Should Study

Do you love acting and want to improve your skills? Acting lessons are a great place to start -- but you can also learn a lot simply from curling up on the couch for movie night! Take a look at these eight movies you can study to learn about important acting techniques from your favorite on-screen actors and actresses.
Instinct
Instinct is a natural tendency to, in character, behave in a certain way. All actors have a bit of instinct  some more than others. For example, Peter Sellers' succe

6 Kids' Acting Games to Play With Your Budding Actor

Whether youre the parent of a budding actor, or a drama enthusiast hoping to ignite a stage spark in your child, there are plenty of cool acting games you can play at home! Acting games are used in many top drama classes and workshops because theyre really handy for developing key acting and performance skills in a fun way. Another cool thing about acting games is that they cost nothing but time and creativity, yet yield educational and personal development as well as hours of precious family

Acting Industry Tips: What They Don't Tell You On the Set

A lot goes on behind the scenes before commercials, TV shows, and movies make it to the air. Here, New York, NY acting teacher Stephanie B. shares a few of the acting industry secrets that you should know as an aspiring actor...
&nbsp;
Being on a film, TV, or commercial set for the first time is exciting and wonderful and VERY confusing. And, worse, everyone will assume you know what to do and when to do it. Here are five acting industry tips to help you look and feel like a pro!
1.